Cole 'at centre of fashion bidding war'

Cheryl Cole is reportedly at the centre of a bidding war between rival fashion firms.

According to The Mirror, Italian designer Roberto Cavalli has offered the X Factor judge a £1.3 million contract to be the face of his next autumn-winter collection.

However, it is thought that two other labels are also keen to sign up Cole and may both be willing to part with £1 million to make their deals happen.

Discussing the singer's appeal, advertising expert Claire Beale told the newspaper: "Cheryl is a great brand icon. She is the Victoria Beckham for a new generation of women - but perhaps cooler and more streetwise than Posh.

"Her fashion credentials aren't yet up to Victoria's, and she's still a little more high street than couture. But she combines beauty, poise and elegance with warmth and a big personality."

Beale, the editor of advertising magazine Campaign, added: "Cheryl is a fantastic example of an ordinary girl made good. Hers is a real fairytale story but she's still down-to-earth enough to be immensely popular with a broad range of women. No wonder she's in such demand."

Cole last week resumed her work schedule after taking time off following her split from husband Ashley.