Simon Cowell has blasted Cheryl Cole and Dannii Minogue for spending too much time trying to out dress each other on The X Factor, it's been reported.

The music mogul is said to be concerned that his fellow judges' fashion war will eclipse the music talent contest.

Cowell raised his concerns with the pair after Cole sported a revealing snakeskin-effect dress on Sunday's programme.

"After the show he summoned all the judges to his dressing room, and let rip at Cheryl and Dannii for spending more time preparing their outfits than their remarks for the show,” a source told the Daily Mirror.

“Dannii and Cheryl are always immaculately turned out and spend ages choosing their clothes and accessories, having their hair and make-up done and generally perfecting their 'look'.

“But in no uncertain terms Simon told them it's a talent show, not a fashion show."

However, the source added that Cowell took his anger out on the pair after being left upset that his hopeful Danyl had been left in the sing-off.

"He had to blame someone - perhaps he thinks the judges' comments might have altered the outcome in some way,” the source added.

Cole and Minogue have been locked in a style battle since the Girls Aloud star joined the programme in 2008.