I agree on the food. I also purchase from the farmers market. (fruits and veggies) The quality is so much better than the supermarkets.
Clothes, makeup etc..hmmm, it really depends on the item. For instance I don't wear makeup often but when I do, I don't want it to rub off or fade off 5 minutes after I put it on. I'll purchase $1-3 eyeliner but will pay $70 for foundation because I know it will last a long time and I get the kind that is custom blended for me. (BTW, it's Prescriptives
)
As far as clothes, I have my theories about Ross and some of the other cheap stores. Socks, jeans, and some household or gift items I would buy there but that's it. Shoes, jackets/coats, underwear, pants etc, I would go to Nordstrom or Macys or NM (evening wear). Since I stay away from trendy/fad clothes (clothes with labels), I feel I get the most for my money because my clothes are always in style and they last forever because the quality is better and I take care of my things.