I usually buy generic for basic items like flour, sugar, salt, etc. I can't tell the difference. I usually buy more expensive specialty food items though. Like chocolate, baked goods, and produce. I hate old produce, my favorite is organic and stuff from farmer's market.

I generally prefer more expensive name brand clothes but I hate paying full price. I usually buy consignment- that way I can get clothes I normally couldn't afford for a reasonable price. I find that higher end stuff lasts longer- I bought a used black Three Dots shirt about 8 years ago, that is still in good shape and is the same shade of black as when I bought it, despite countless washings. I think in that case, the higher price was definitely more cost-effective!

Another is coffee- not necessarily the brand, but the fact that I don't like making coffee, and I rarely ever make it for myself. Instead, I go to Starbucks a few times a week. (But in my defense I only buy the brewed kind!)

And of course pet food! We've been lucky with the Canidae and Felidae not being subject to recall...plus the pets all do well on it.