When I was younger and still under the financial care of my father, I didn't even care how much my clothes cost (apparently a lot). But ever since I turned 15 and got myself emancipated from him, I learnt the value of money. I do not browse, I go in the store with a specific item to buy, and if I find it I get it and get out. That saved me quite a bit of money. Unlike my mother who buys tons of things, I only get like one or two new items every five months or so. The last expensive thing I bought (with my own money) was a custom red leather double breasted jacket. It cost me $500, but it was my absolute favorite red, fit perfectly, and kept me so warm. I also bought a pair of Valentino leather gloves, around $300. I only spend on things that will last me for a long time. I'm not so much into trends.
As far as designer items went, I once wore a vintage yellow Versace cocktail dress (perhaps the most beautifully simple dress I would ever wear on my skin. The fabric was stunning, a sweet gleaming sparkling yellow with no itchiness. The cut fit perfectly along my body. I have remained a fan of Gianni Versace ever since). I returned the dress immediately though, my father's assistant borrowed it for me.