Isabella Blow 'died of overdose'

Isabella Blow was registered as living near Stroud

Fashion stylist Isabella Blow died of a drugs overdose, an inquest has heard.

Ms Blow, known for her love of flamboyant hats, died aged 48 at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital.

The fashion director of Tatler magazine was credited with launching the careers of designer Alexander McQueen, milliner Philip Treacy and model Sophie Dahl.

An inquest was opened and adjourned at Gloucester Coroner's Court. A coroner's officer said: "The cause of death was the effects of a drug overdose."

Following her death, Ms Blow's editor at Tatler, Geordie Greig, paid tribute to his friend of 25 years.

"She was this extraordinarily unique person who combined extravagance with great taste. She only dealt with surprise," he said.

"It is a huge loss for British fashion and for Britain as a whole."

Ms Blow was registered as living at Hilles House, near Stroud.