Christy Turlington on Supermodeling, George Michael, and Maternal Health Advocacy

Early Life and Modeling Career

• 💡 Christy Turlington was discovered at 14 while horseback riding, and moved to New York at 18 to pursue modeling.
• 🚀 She became one of the iconic "Supermodels" of the 1990s, appearing on over 500 magazine covers and walking for numerous designers.
• 🌟 Her early career included department store ads and jewelry/cosmetics campaigns, marking a transition to a professional path.

Fashion Industry Reflections

• 👠 Turlington found runway walking overwhelming due to the scale and pressure, preferring more intimate environments.
• 🤝 She developed strong bonds with industry professionals like makeup artists and hairdressers, who acted as her support system.
• 🎨 Working with designers like Vivienne Westwood and Marc Jacobs was a highlight, with Westwood's radical designs and Westwood's unique approach to shows being particularly memorable.
• 📸 Steven Meisel is credited with making her feel seen and valued, fostering a collaborative and playful creative environment.

George Michael's "Freedom! '90" and Advocacy

• 🎶 Turlington participated in George Michael's "Freedom! '90" music video, a significant project that became a turning point for her and her peers.
• 💔 She reflects on George Michael's personal journey and the impact of his passing, cherishing the connection made through the video.
• 🌍 Her advocacy for maternal health began after a difficult childbirth experience, leading to the founding of Every Mother Counts.

Maternal Health and Personal Journey

• 🤰 Turlington's own childbirth complications, despite a seemingly perfect birth plan, highlighted the need for better maternal care and advocacy.
• 💖 Every Mother Counts aims to make pregnancy and childbirth safer for all women globally, a cause she remains deeply committed to.
• 🎓 Her academic pursuits in comparative religion, Eastern philosophy, and public health inform her worldview and advocacy efforts.