ever since i've started carrying high end bags (i.e. balenciaga and ysl) i can't convince myself to carry cheap bags, even if i might like the look of them - upon closer look i usually will realise the workmanship (or lack thereof) is shoddy. carrying high end bags has made me very picky.
it's too bad because just a few years ago, i used to carry cheap ($40-60) girly canvas totes around - you know the kind, with prints on them and what not - but now i couldn't possibly. i'd feel like those bags have no STYLE, and i'd feel as though my outfits would be really incomplete! haha
HOWEVER, select vintage pieces that are timeless and hard to come by are an exception - i will wear those occasionally and enjoy them, appreciating their uniqueness and character. also, vintage pieces are often far better quality than the mass produced crap being sold these days. :O