depends on the item.

if the subtitute with no brand and cheaper will do why not? but if it's necessary (need not want) that I go for the brand.

For superficial items (clothes, bag, shoes, etc) I more care whether I can afford it or not. If I can afford the brand items that's good, if not nobody care. But if it's for something I expect last longer I'd get the brand with goodnames and guarantee (5 years if possible ).