Some say fashion is merely an aesthetic fix for the eye. Its essence is seen on a surface level. But there are designers who seek to accomplish much more than what meets the eye.

Kay Laurore of JK Experience and Tenisha C of T-Simone Designs are women who share a similar mission: to empower their fellow women to view themselves as more than just the proverbial "eye candy."

Each designer's respective collection is designed so that the women who wear them will walk with their heads held high in confidence. What's more, both Laurore and Tenisha take initiative beyond the runway to reach and affect the women who will don their garments.

Every September, the world of fashion converges in New York City for the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, showcasing all the fall trends from national & international designers. As it were, all over the city, small fashion houses, boutiques and budding designers host events to promote fashions that have not yet made it to the Mercedes Benz stage.

Both Washington D.C.'s T-Simone Designs and Edison, NJ's JK Experience  were featured on September 10 at New York Fashion Connect's  "Clash of the Coutures." The show was tucked away in an intimate 36^th Street loft in NYC's fashion district.

First on the runway that evening, Tenisha C of T-Simone Designs has "always been motivated to be different and not create styles that are easily replicated."

She strongly believes that clothing should be able to speak for itself.

The first few pieces of the collection featured an "off the shoulder" theme. The dresses and tops were all one shoulder items in vivid colors. The designs were edgy yet elegant, serving to transcend age group.

The patterns were striking and accentuated each piece accordingly.

Tenisha claims color, music and art as her muse -- all of which are evident from viewing her collection.

Although she started drawing since age four, her journey into the world of fashion came in high school. She designed her senior prom dress. However, it wasn't until 2005 that she took the journey seriously.

The last of T-Simone Designs' collection that night featured more casual urban attire for women.

They bore a retro 80s feel, consisting of tops, pants, and even a couple of light hoodies. A strong sense of color was tastefully infused in all the pieces, truly capturing the feel of the era. A common trend in fashion as of late has been to revive the style of a certain decade, yet add a modern day flare. She did just that.

Tenisha endeavors to let girls know that "it is attractive to be smart and cute, and have your own unique style."

She spearheads a project where she designs tote bags and gives them out to girls for free; emphasizing the importance of staying in school, while encouraging that it is "okay to look good while getting your education."

The line that followed was that of JK Experience, a dynamic husband & wife duo making strides in the fashion industry. Kay Laurore (the 'K' in the 'JK') shared that "there's always someone against what you're doing, but if you have a true desire in your heart for fashion, just keep on going."

Laurore credits the inspiration for her designs to God and to the women he created. She has a goal and desire to uplift these women through her clothing line.

"It's not just about making clothes but changing lives," said Laurore.

The first set in the JK Experience segment showcased chic dresses and sassy outfits. The pieces showed a broad spectrum of designs and variety. They could be worn for a night on the town or for a formal affair. The prints on all the pieces were beautiful accents to equally beautiful designs.

The casual wear was next, emphasizing a more relaxed, playful side of the woman.

Her aim to uplift women was evident in her 'I AM' collection, focusing on declaring what God says about women. The collection consists of all tops, some sleeveless, some with sleeves in a variety of five colors.

The tops proclaim boldly, "I AM...BLESSED," "I AM...A CHRISTIAN," "I AM...LOVED," "I AM...BEAUTIFUL," "I AM...A CONQUEROR," "I AM...GOD'S CHILD," "I AM...AT PEACE," and "I AM...A BELIEVER." They are definitive statements a woman can wear proudly and serve as a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Finally, JK Experience revealed its new 'Armor Collection' inspired by the scripture detailing the armor of God ( Ephesians 6:10 -17).

The pieces modeled corresponded to the different parts of the armor and where they are found on the body. The 'helmet of salvation,' 'breastplate of righteousness,' 'sword of the spirit,' 'shield of faith,' 'belt of truth," etc.

My favorites from the collection were the 'helmet of salvation' piece, which bore the word 'SALVATION' on the brim of the hood of the dress in glittery font, the 'belt of truth' black dress with turquoise accents bearing 'TRUTH' written along the waistline and the 'breastplate of righteousness, another elegant black dress with pink accents bearing 'RIGHTEOUSNESS' written diagonally across the chest.

The whole collection takes on a regal look, exemplifying the royalty of the children of God. All the pieces in the JK Experience catalog are available to view and purchase on their website.

Neisha Madden, Newark, NJ felt the show was "awesome, but seemed a little rushed."

"My favorite for the night was a turquoise and white number from the JK Experience line, with shoulder pads, which is Kay's signature," said Madden.

The model wearing the dress was Charnele Ashlee, also from New Jersey.

Ironically, the dress was also her favorite piece for the night.

"The dress was not made for me but fit me perfectly and I have already received compliments on it," said Ashlee.

The success of a fashion show in Laurore's words is a lot of "blood, sweat, and tears."

In the end, it is beneficial for all players - organizers, designers and guests.

Clash of the Coutures 2011 boasted great company, a great mission and great fashion. Success.