The Cheap vs The Expensive

I love a good deal and (ask anyone who knows me) historically have always sought out deals for everything. A great value empowers me. Some may call me cheap. I don't like that term, sounds trashy. I, of course, prefer frugal. But there is something I'm learning. There are some things worth their higher price tags. I don't believe you always get what you pay for as I think somethings are way overpriced and others really are a good value.

My best example of this is running/walking shoes. I've owned several pair of tennis shoes -- one pair I just donated to charity, and they were 15 years old! And I remember what I payed for them, $35, and the town where I purchased them, Spartanburg (on Highway 29). I have this strange ability to remember the approximate costs of almost all of my purchases (except groceries) and their relative stores. Anyway, I also bought another pair of "fashion" New Balances several years ago at Kohls at Myrtle Beach while Kevin and I were away for the weekend. We had been shopping all day and my feet were killing me, so I bought these very cute gray and white NB athletic shoes. They were $49.99, quite a bit in my frugal mind. Last year I found a pair of Nike's in my size at a consignment sale for $5, so obviously, I bought those too.

Then...

then...

Two weeks ago I was properly fitted for running shoes and holy cow!! They are amazing...in comfort and the ability to make my feet feel awesome. What they are not is cute, but I don't even care AND they were $100! I assumed I would eventually feel guilty for this purchase. Two weeks have passed and there's not an ounce of guilt. Just a sense of wonder...wondering what I've missed out on by buying the cheap stuff. My core value remains steadfast. It is my definition of value that is evolving. A simple t-shirt for $8 at Target, well, that's cheap and a good value. Brooks running shoes that feel like they were made for my feet -- expensive, and still a good value. My past purchasing habits indicate that I thought value = cheap.

If there is anyone out there actually reading this, I would love to hear other items that may be pricey but worth it...specifically interested in sunglasses, home decor, televisions, furniture, and of course clothes!