At an early age of 13, Christy's father entered her in local competitions. As with most protective parents, Christy's mom and dad recognized her beauty but were somewhat hesitant to let Christy venture into the world of modeling. but after some urging, they finally gave their consent. Christy was hired instantly by a local agency and her first shoot was for a succession of advertisements for a store chain called Emporium Capwell. It wasn't long before more jobs came pouring in for this young American Beauty.

Christy's face was flawless and it wasn't long before Miami's fashion world familiarized itself with Christy and in no time fashion agencies were demanding Christy for their shoots. Word about Christy reached New York and Eileen Ford offered Christy a job in Paris. Her first high status photo shoots in Europe were not successful so she returned home to the US immediately. When Christy was still only 16 years old, Eileen Ford, who refused to give up on Christy's potential for stardom, sent the budding beauty to New York's most noted magazines and photographers. After appearing in Vogue magazine in the US, Christy returned to high school to complete her education before continuing her career as a model. Her modeling career finally shot into high gear after she did a cover shot for Vogue Italy.

After Christy was featured the cover of Vogue Italy magazine, the best photographers in the world began knocking on Christy's professional door. By this time, Christy was considered a supermodel and had signed a contract with Calvin Klein and began representing his perfume Eternity. Christy also represented Maybelline's cosmetics line.

Christy is an advocate for helping poverty-stricken individuals as she donates all the proceeds from her calendar to the American Foundation for El Salvador, an organization that helps the poor in the small Central American country that was her mom's homeland. Christy also participates in a number of other volunteer organizations including Fashion Targets Breast Cancer and PETA.

Christy attended UCLA and the Gallatin School at New York University where she received her degree in philosophy and literature, with a specialization in Eastern philosophy. 

Christy is still seen in advertisements all over the world. It's obvious that Christy Turlington is a classic beauty that won't fade out of the spotlight.