Frugality rules, so long as I don't sacrifice quality ... the quality I need vs. overbuying a higher end quality, that is perhaps beyond my forseeable needs.
Top of the line purchases are important to me, only if they offer what I need, and there is not an alternate suitable choice.
Buying the "best" of something doesn't necessarily give me a better end product or end use, than a lesser brand name. And yes, sometimes buying "the name" is important as it is truly The Best! I try to balance how important is the best, vs. what is good enough.
I guess you can call me a blend of ... "Buyer Beware" and "Shop Wisely"!!