I want to buy yarn to crochet a blanket but...

[GenerationPolaroid]

I'm a bit shocked at yarn prices at the moment. I usually stick to 100% acrylic like Stylecraft or Paintbox, but I want something a bit more special for a gift. I'm just not sure if it will be worth the money, we're talking more than double what I'd normally pay!
Can anyone recommend a yarn that comes in lovely vibrant colours, looks good, feels good, and washes well? Ideally Aran weight.
I’m a bit wary of using 100% cotton, I worry it’ll be too heavy, or that it’ll fade and look tired quite quickly.
Any suggestions appreciated!

Thank you all.
I know I said I'm a bit weary of cotton, but maybe a mix would be okay? And what about superwash wool, or a wool and acrylic mix? Maybe I need to compromise and go for DK as it's harder to get a variety of fibres in Aran. I'll start taking a look at the ones suggested so far. Thanks again.

Look at Drops. They are really good value and gorgeous yarn.

I made a blanket from King Cole bamboo cotton yarn. DK though. It was really nice to work with