My husband has used Allen Edmonds for years. He's had several pairs re-soled, too. I don't recall thinking the re-soles were much cheaper than a new pair...but my husband originally picked the shoes to "last forever" (i.e. never have to spend time shopping again). For him, it was about laziness (see prior parenthesis) AND about good-looking shoes that fit like a glove (after the shoes are broken in but then re-soled they still fit considerably better than a new pair of shoes). My husband has a suit job, so his feet must look the part every day.
I second the comment about cast-iron pans. If you cannot find an old used one (from your family or from a thrift store), Lodge Cast Iron is the way to go...and, dare I say, Walmart has a decent selection. And in case some are not aware, using cast iron regularly also adds iron to your food...without having to always pay for pricey iron sources (e.g. meat). Not sure how much it adds, but it does add an amount worth noting. (I know "rich", "poor", "young" and "old" people who use cast iron; it seems to be a kithcen staple for all kinds of folks!)
Apparently, Clarks has a lifetime warranty on their socks. We were told when we bought a few pairs that if they EVER "go bad" (any runs, heal gets worn, etc.), that the company will replace them for free. I said to the clerk "that means I never have to buy socks again!" and he actually said "yes". We haven't tested this yet...