VALENTINO's best haute couture creations will be displayed in a new retrospective.

The 'Valentino: Master of Couture' exhibition will span the Italian designer's 50-year career and feature over 130 of his most magnificent dresses when it opens in London's Somerset House in November.

Valentino explained his vision to VOGUE.co.uk, saying: ''Each of these designs has a beautiful story. The atelier crafted each so diligently by hand, taking hours, sometimes days to complete. The details are incredibly intricate.

''Though outside the runway shows and events, the dresses have rarely been seen. To be able to showcase these designs at Somerset House, where they can be seen in great detail by the public, is very unique.''

Valentino Garavani's creations are a firm favourite with the likes of Grace Kelly, Gwyneth Paltrow and Sophia Loren.

The beloved couturier retired from The Fashion industry five years ago and his career will be honoured for the first time.

The exhibition will be presented around a catwalk and include Jackie Kennedy Onassis' 1968 wedding dress and Julia Roberts' iconic black and white Oscar acceptance speech dress.

'Valentino: Master of Couture' opens on November 29 and will run until March 3 2013.