Fast-growing teen apparel retailer Rue21, inc., which has 800 stores in 46 states, announced plans to open 120 stores nationally this year. Rue21 is a private company that will soon expand its store base to over 1,000 locations.

Rue 21 sells the newest fashion apparel and accessories for girls and guys, including graphic T-shirts, denim, jewelry, handbags, footwear, and intimate apparel. According to the website, merchandise is designed to appeal to 11 to 17 year olds who aspire to be 21 and adults who want to look and feel 21. Where did Rue21 get its name? According to the website, “rue” comes from the French word for “street” while “21” represents the age that everyone wants to be.

Chain Store Guide’s database of Apparel Specialty Stores allows you to search on a company’s projected store openings and to see what in states the store expansions are planned. Profiled in Chain Store Guides fast growing report with 535 stores in 2010, Rue21 expects to reach the 1,000 mark soon. The chain is seeking well-located spaces ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 sq. ft. There are 12 stores planned for the Long Island area, and the opportunity for many more throughout the country.