Lily Allen sounded out to be X Factor judge

Chart-topping star Lily Allen has been sounded out about joining the X Factor judging panel.

The singer, who is taking a break from her music career and focusing on her fashion business, is known for her plain-speaking.

The panel for the ITV1 show is still uncertain due to programme boss Simon Cowell's commitments to launching a US version of the show. Judge Cheryl Cole is still said to be in the running for the American programme which may affect her availability in the UK.

A spokesman for Allen would not comment on whether there had been any approaches but said her main priority at present was her fashion range.

Allen, 25, has had two hit albums and a string of hits including Smile and The Fear. But Allen - who lost a child last year while she was six months pregnant - has been concentrating on her burgeoning fashion empire.

A soon-to-launch Channel 4 documentary series Lily Allen: From Riches To Rags will follow her as she sets up her style business.

Allen's spokesman said: "Lily's priority at the moment is her shop Lucy In Disguise and the worldwide launch of her first ready-to-wear collection for the business.

"She gets lots of offers to appear on TV but, apart from a documentary based on the opening of her shop, she has not committed to any TV appearances."