Battle of the platinum blondes: Gwen Stefani and Rita Ora show the contestants how it's done as they back James Arthur

They are two stand out acts from two different generations but one thing they have in common is their eye for talent.

Former guest judge Rita Ora and Gwen Stefani, as part of No Doubt, showed the X Factor contestants how to put on a show before backing James Arthur.

While Rita performed new single Shine Your Light, she was thoroughly outshone by Gwen Stefani on Sunday night's X Factor.

Top billing: Rita Ora and No Doubt both performed on The X Factor and spoke glowingly of James Arthur

Old school: Gwen Stefani and No Doubt rocked the stage before proclaiming how amazing James Arthur was

No Doubt took to the stage as the second guest performers but they were clearly the number one act after their engaging performance.

The band rocked out while Gwen strutted around with her svelte and toned tummy on show in a crop top and leather skirt, which she wore with tartan print trousers.

The American band performed Looking Hot and they certainly did with their pristine front woman looking remarkably good at age 43.

Battle ground: Both Gwen and Rita sported the same hair colour but opted for very different styles

Put your hands up: Gwen showed off an impressive set of guns as well as a rather toned torso

The popular vote: Gwen had given a masterclass to X Factor contestants earlier in the week

Following their performance, Gwen said of James Arthur performing their song Don't Speak: 'It was really awkward but it was amazing , he did amazing.'

Rita Ora had done her best to impress the audience but the former guest X Factor judge simply could not compete with the expertise of No Doubt.

Rita took to the stage in modest fashion wearing a baggy black sequined jacket with her blonde hair tussled delicately into shape.