Raised in Malibu, California

After graduation, she worked as an illustrator for three years in Paris

Signed with cosmetics giant Cover Girl; contract continued to be renewed until 1996, making it the longest model contract ever

Appeared on the cover of three consecutive Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issues

Was the inspiration for husband Billy Joel’s major hit “Uptown Girl”; also appeared as the title character in the music video

Wrote the best-selling fitness book, Christie Brinkley’s Outdoor Beauty and Fitness book

Made acting debut as Chevy Chase's fantasy girl in the blockbuster “National Lampoon's Vacation”

Reprised her role as the mysterious lady in the red Ferrari, in the sequel, “Vegas Vacation”

Hosted the short-lived show “Living in the '90s with Christie Brinkley” (CNN)

Created the cover art for Billy Joel’s River of Dreams album

Appeared as herself in an episode of the NBC comedy, “Mad About You”

Signed with NuSkin International, to become the companies first spokesperson for their personal care division

Hosted the most profitable infomercial in America for Total Gym

Launched her own perfume, Believe

Once again signed with Cover Girl to appear in magazines and commercials for their mature skin line