Value attribution is complex, as these responses suggest. It's not only about price; it's also about brand and wearability and everything else you personally use to assess and pin value on an item initially. That varies from individual to individual (Shevia's a perfect example, because she attributes a higher value to a thrifted item).
But the discounting effect, in particular, is something with data behind it. In general and overall, discounting tends to lessen the value we assign to something. Still, it's quite possible that this varies based on purchase category, and it may well be that fashion purchases in particular are complex in a unique way (it would be really interesting to study this in a scientific way).
Thanks everyone for chiming in! This is a really interesting conversation and I appreciate everyone's thoughts. Just a few specific comments.
Rachylou: I can't quite uncouple price from quality, although it's very true for me that I can find inexpensive high quality items and also the opposite. But generally, I find that more expensive items have features, finishing, and textile quality that is higher than less expensive items. Utility is another thing: I agree on that wholeheartedly.
Jenni: So interesting to read about your thoughts and experiences around loss and how that affects your closet.
Jules: I can make quick buy decisions at any price point ... but I hear you, there are (low cost) stores I have learned to avoid.
Sal: yes - that wine/cheese example is right on. I need to think more about "being over" something and editing too quickly. I think that's true for me too.
Bj and Suz: I'm still baffled by expected wears, tracked wears, and the 30-wear theory. It intrigues me that people use this kind of calculus but I've never found myself really wanting to go down that path (or to bother with the counting).
Smittie: Brilliant.
Joy: I love the jeans story! It sounds like you're doing exactly what Smittie is suggesting.
Brooklyn: Yes to the idea of holding on to workhorses no matter what the price point.
Janet: Yes! The just-in-case special purchases! I have been there.
Jenn: really helpful ideas, there.
Angie: It's so interesting to think about factoring in the constant discounting at stores like JCrew and BR! To me, this has completely thrown off my sense of the value of items from those stores. It's almost as if there is no inherent brand-based value; it's all about the execution and wearability of each particular item (which is perhaps just as it should be).
