Cindy Crawford, born Cynthia Ann Crawford on February 20, 1966, in DeKalb, Illinois, is one of the world’s most recognized supermodels and enduring fashion icons. Rising to fame in the 1980s and 1990s, she became synonymous with elegance, professionalism, and the global supermodel era. Her signature beauty mark and captivating presence made her a household name, inspiring generations of models and redefining the standards of modern beauty.
Over the decades, Crawford built a multifaceted career that spans modeling, acting, television, fitness, and business. She appeared on hundreds of magazine covers, walked for top designers, and represented major brands such as Versace, Pepsi, and Revlon. Beyond modeling, she established successful lifestyle ventures, proving that her influence extended far beyond the runway.
Quick Facts of Cindy Crawford
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cynthia Ann Crawford |
| Date of Birth | February 20, 1966 |
| Place of Birth | DeKalb, Illinois, U.S. |
| Height | 5 ft 9½ in (1.77 m) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Education | Northwestern University (dropped out) |
| Occupation | Model, Actress, TV Personality, Businesswoman |
| Years Active | 1983–present |
| Spouse | Rande Gerber (m. 1998), Richard Gere (m. 1991–div. 1995) |
| Children | 2 – Presley Walker Gerber and Kaia Gerber |
| Agency | Storm Management (London) |
| Website | cindy.com |
Early Life and Education
Cindy Crawford grew up in DeKalb, Illinois, as the daughter of Daniel Kenneth Crawford and Jennifer Sue Crawford-Moluf. Her childhood was marked by both academic excellence and personal tragedy — her younger brother, Jeff, passed away from leukemia when she was just ten. This loss deeply influenced her later charity work.
In high school, a local photographer captured her for a newspaper feature, launching her passion for modeling. After graduating as valedictorian in 1984, she received a scholarship to study chemical engineering at Northwestern University. However, she left after one quarter to pursue a full-time modeling career, a decision that would change her life forever.
Rise to Supermodel Stardom
Crawford’s modeling career began in Chicago before she moved to New York City in 1986 and signed with Elite Model Management. Her professionalism and magnetic beauty quickly made her one of the most sought-after models in the industry.
She appeared on over 500 magazine covers, including Vogue, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Cosmopolitan. Her collaborations with top fashion houses such as Versace, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, and Calvin Klein solidified her global appeal.
Crawford was also part of the legendary group of supermodels — alongside Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, and Tatjana Patitz — who defined the 1990s fashion scene. Their appearance together in George Michael’s “Freedom! ’90” music video became a defining cultural moment.
Acting and Television Career
Beyond modeling, Cindy ventured into acting and television. She hosted MTV’s House of Style from 1989 to 1995, giving fans an inside look at fashion and celebrity culture. In 1995, she made her film debut in Fair Game, followed by appearances in The Simian Line and several TV shows, including Wizards of Waverly Place and Cougar Town.
Although acting didn’t match her modeling success, she became a pop culture mainstay through commercials, especially her iconic Pepsi Super Bowl ad (1992). In 2016, she recreated the ad, proving her timeless appeal.
Business Ventures and Entrepreneurship
After stepping back from full-time modeling in 2000, Crawford focused on entrepreneurship. She co-founded Meaningful Beauty, a skincare line developed with Dr. Jean-Louis Sebagh. The brand quickly became a best-seller, empowering women to embrace age gracefully.
She also launched the Cindy Crawford Home Collection, partnering with leading furniture retailers such as Rooms to Go, Raymour & Flanigan, and J.C. Penney. Her business acumen transformed her into one of the few supermodels to achieve lasting success beyond fashion.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Crawford has long supported causes close to her heart. Inspired by her brother Jeff’s battle with leukemia, she donates to childhood cancer research and the University of Wisconsin–Madison pediatric oncology program.
She also supports the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and the California Wildlife Center. Her dedication to giving back highlights her compassionate side and her commitment to making a lasting difference.
Personal Life and Family
Cindy married actor Richard Gere in 1991, though the couple divorced in 1995. In 1998, she married businessman and former model Rande Gerber. Together, they have two children — Presley Walker Gerber and Kaia Gerber, both of whom have followed their parents into modeling.
The family splits time between homes in California and other locations, often collaborating on business projects, including the 2019 purchase of the iconic Hollywood deli Nate ’n Al’s.
Legacy and Influence
Cindy Crawford remains a defining figure in the modeling industry. Her look — natural, confident, and powerful — reshaped global beauty standards. She’s frequently ranked among the greatest models of all time and continues to mentor younger models, including her daughter Kaia.
In 2023, she starred in the Apple TV+ documentary The Super Models alongside Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, and Linda Evangelista, celebrating their influence on culture and fashion.
Her ability to evolve — from runway sensation to successful entrepreneur and philanthropist — makes her legacy both enduring and inspirational.
Interesting Facts
- Cindy was once nicknamed “Baby Gia” for her resemblance to late model Gia Carangi.
- Her trademark beauty mark became one of the most recognizable features in fashion.
- She recreated her 1992 Pepsi ad in 2021 to raise funds for a children’s hospital.
- She co-authored the book Becoming (2015), sharing insights from her modeling career and life lessons.
