Paloma Faith and Estelle are among the music stars who have paid tribute to fashion designer Alexander McQueen, who has died.

McQueen was found dead at his home in Central London this morning.

Unconfirmed reports claim the 40-year-old – who was widely regarded as one of the most influential names in fashion – committed suicide.

In a message on Twitter, Estelle described McQueen as “truly a creative genius”.

Faith, who has admitted in the past to being a fan of the designer, wrote: “RIP alexander mcqueen. so so sad-what a genius,what a tragedy.”

Good Charlotte frontman Joel Madden also called McQueen “one of the best”, adding: “Always hoped to meet you.”

Paloma Faith pays tribute to Alexander McQueen on her Twitter page

McQueen's death comes three years after the suicide of his close friend and fashion icon Isabella Blow, and just a week after the death of his mother.

In a statement, his company said: "On behalf of Lee McQueen's family, Alexander McQueen today announces the tragic news that Lee McQueen, the founder and designer of the Alexander McQueen brand, has been found dead at his home.

"At this stage it is inappropriate to comment on this tragic news beyond saying that we are devastated and are sharing a sense of shock and grief with Lee's family.

"Lee's family has asked for privacy in order to come to terms with this terrible news and we hope the media will respect this."

McQueen's eye-catching designs were a familiar sight in the music world, with Rihanna, Lady GaGa and Bjork among his high-profile fans.

(by Jason Gregory)