Eventually I realize that there is no efficient choice possible on the basis of packaging, and resort to making selections by unit price--or choosing a randomly distributed sample in hopes of remembering the results.
I'm sure you know what brand of computer you're using right now or, if you built your own, what brand of CPU, video card, RAM and hard drive you installed in it.
For me, I can tell you without a moment's hesitation that I use the following brands for the listed product categories:
Laptop: Apple
Phone: Apple
Shoes: Puma
Jeans: Diesel
Pasta sauce: Newman's Own
But, with shampoo: beats me, whatever was on sale at Costco.
Interestingly, in 3 out of 4 aforementioned known brands, I almost always shop in their branded stores for their products. (on a related note: I'd love to find a Paul Newman-branded grocery store. that would be killer).
It helps if you have a clear idea of what you want. I, for example, like extremely minimal shoes. Think like a ballet slipper, except a little more sturdy so it can put up with rocks and concrete and stuff.