Kyle Krause: The CEO Who Dresses for Success, From Italian Vineyards to Soccer Pitches

Kyle Krause, the 63-year-old CEO of the Iowa-based Krause Group, embodies a hands-on leadership philosophy that permeates his personal presentation. His extensive business portfolio, which spans international ventures, necessitates a wardrobe that is both functional and reflective of the diverse environments he navigates. Krause Group's holdings include the historic Italian soccer club Parma Calcio 1913, the esteemed Vietti winery in the Piedmont region of Italy, and the luxurious five-star resort Casa di Langa, also located in Italy. Krause's commitment to his businesses is evident in his frequent travel, visiting Europe monthly. During a recent trip, he was observed in Parma, where he maintains an apartment, dressed in a navy linen sport coat with a subtle plaid pattern, a linen shirt, whitestone-hued trousers he humorously dubs "JFK" pants, and a pair of driver shoes. His wrist was accessorized with a Patek Philippe travel watch, notable for its dual-time zone capability and brown leather band, a practical choice for an international businessman. This ensemble, he states, is "very normal for me," underscoring his consistent personal style. Over the years, Krause has cultivated a reputation as one of the most stylish figures in the business world. His sartorial journey began during an era where suits and ties were standard business attire. However, he has evolved his wardrobe to emphasize layering classic, yet more casual, menswear pieces. He notes that his current style has not drastically changed from a decade ago, a testament to his enduring appreciation for timeless fashion. His early interest in style was shaped by his diligent study of publications like GQ and Esquire during his formative years. Krause's personal philosophy on dressing leans towards being slightly overdressed rather than underdressed, a strategic approach he explains: "You can always take a jacket off. It’s hard to put the jacket on if it doesn’t go with you." While he occasionally dons a tie for more formal engagements, his practicality shines through. For instance, when visiting his vineyards in Italy, he keeps a pair of Roa hiking sneakers readily available in his car, anticipating potential excursions that require more rugged footwear. Regardless of the specific garment or occasion, Krause consistently emphasizes the critical role of good tailoring. He humorously remarks that it "compensates for my looks," highlighting his self-aware and pragmatic approach to personal grooming. His style is best described as contemporary and functional, a direct reflection of his Midwestern pragmatism blended with a global business perspective.