The next time you clean out your closet and find yourself with bags of clothes and shoes that you don't know what to do with, it's time to consign!

Consignment shops have popped up everywhere in the last few years and are a great way to make a little extra money or update your wardrobe without forking out a fortune. From designer duds to clothes that still have the original store tags on them, you can find almost anything at these one-stop shops.

But consignment is not just for women anymore; men and children are finding markets of their very own these days.

For instance, Buttons & Bows in Garner specializes in kids' clothes, maternity wear and everything your child could possibly want (even toys). Like many other consignment shops, Buttons & Bows carries name-brand clothes and shoes, handmade outfits and affordable boutique clothing.

Another budding business, Plato's Closet is one of the first consignment shop chain stores and has become so popular that locations have opened up all over the country. Plato's Closet pays you directly for the clothes they keep, making it easier than ever to cash in on clothes that are collecting dust. According our local Plato's Closet, men's clothes are huge sellers and college kids are some of their best customers, keeping styles fresh.

Consigning is simple. Make sure that you call the consignment shop you chose before bringing in your lightly worn clothes, shoes and accessories. Keep in mind that consignment stores charge a small percentage of what they sell your clothes and accessories for (after all, they are doing all of the work). After a few weeks, most consignment stores will either keep a tab of your clothes that have sold to use in store or they will pay you directly.

So the next time you clean out your closet, don't just throw all of that money away! Remember, one woman's tight jeans are another woman's treasure.