I've done the stocking up thing in the past as well. Alas, since I've not purchased new bras in quite a few years, the style I like - front clasp; underwire; demi cup - really is not readily available. I did try the latest version from Playtex but the back band is very tall. I don't find them comfortable at all. I feel like I'm wearing armor plating from the waist up! And it's really not that much about the price. If it cost me the $20 to make, I'm good with that. I refuse to pay $60-80 for a bra regardless of how much I may like it. And, honestly, haven't even seen any in that price range that I like.
My size is not that uncommon - 38C. But if you look at what's out there in that price range, they are all flipping enormous! And way more padding than someone wearing a 38C bra needs! I could probably actually use the band to be a bit more than the 38" to achieve a reduced 'bra fat' appearance as well.