Same here, I ride what's cheap or free. As long as I stay in good standing with my racing team I get free clothing and race reimbursement.

I've used Pactimo, Champ Sys., Voler, Pearl Izumi and some of the generic brands that @seau grateau mentioned. It all seems equally crappy to me. Again, it's all been lower end offerings or mid grade at best.

I've never forked out for a high end jersey so I can't comment on those.

My advice is to go to a LBS or like a Performance Bike or something and see if they have a clearance or defect bin. If they do, find something the right size and buy it if it isn't hideously ugly.