CHART-toppers Little Mix have said they only wear what they feel comfortable in following criticism about the group's racy outfits during their performance on X Factor.

The girl band, who scored a number one with break-up anthem Shout Out To My Ex on Friday, faced criticism after performing the single on the show last week.

But South Shields' born band member Jade Thirlwall said they had total control over their outfits and did not really know what "the big deal" was.

Speaking on the red carpet at Radio 1's Teen Awards, where they are set to perform, she said: "It's all us. We're comfortable in what we wear.

"We know what we are wearing and to be honest we were like - we don't really know what the big deal was. It was really weird."

She added: "Every woman that I've spoken to has said 'yes girl'.

"We don't see what the problem is. And I think everyone's got to have something to say - so they picked that one."

Little Mix will be joined by Jess Glynne, DNCE, The Vamps, Shawn Mendes, and special guests for the seventh annual awards ceremony at the SSE Wembley Arena.

More than 9,000 14 to 17 year olds are expected to attend the awards, which recognise the selflessness and bravery of the UK's young unsung heroes and also honour stars in the music, entertainment, online and sporting industries.