Fashion designer Julien Macdonald hits back at Cheryl Cole after row over singer's style

The former judge on The X Factor, who, like Sir Jimmy Savile, has become a friend of the Prince of Wales, said this week that she would never have a working relationship again with Julien Macdonald, after the designer dared to criticise her style in 2010.

Speaking at a party to launch Equinox fitness club in Kensington, he adds of his criticism: It was so long ago and, even then, it was nothing.

The Countess of Wessex is usually happy to pose for pictures, but she was taken aback when asked to stand next to Poppy Delevingne at a fashion event. Not only is the model 5ft 10in, but she was wearing platform boots.

She was laughing, as I was wearing the most ridiculous high heels, so, I think, she thought I would dwarf her in the photographs, says the granddaughter of Sir Jocelyn Stevens at the screening of a Swarovski-sponsored film celebrating the 15th anniversary of Matthew Williamsons fashion label, at Nobu Berkeley Street. It was silly, as she looked gorgeous.