Things that are worth paying extra money for

1. Have one good 'dress up' out fit. Get it as tailored as you can afford

2. Get polo (collared short sleeved shirts)

They look much much better that t-shirts and cost marginally more

3. if you can taste the difference, get brand name condiments instead of generic (ie Heinz katsup instead of no-name)

4. Good footwear

Again , get a good pair of work shoes, a good pair of casual shoes and a good pair of running / athletic shoes

5. If you are committed to a particular sport, get top quality gear for it

Poor quality gear will hinder you progress in the sport

6. Get a proper fitted/tailored semi dress outfit (men: blazer and flannels women: the little blaci cocktail dress

7. Tools that you will actually be using on a regular basis, get top quality

8. When buying personal computer equipment, get one level higher than you need right now. It will thereby serve your needs much longer

9. My parents took this attitude towards furnishing of the house. Get best quality or get junk