[MINDGAME]

If I wanted my Mini a little less shiny, could I remove the bulk of the chrome trim or would I have to paint over it?

[stryder]

The chrome line bumper (which I assume you 'accidently' got in your specification) is plastic inserts, there's discussion on removing them, except the replacements would need to be painted. I would advise against painting the chrome pieces themselves, especially since the pieces tend to break when removed, so you'd want fresh ones to install. Recently black bumper inserts have become an option, so you could get those from a dealer, but I'm not sure that's the look you want. There will be very dumb looking holes/dents if you just remove the chrome strips.

The grille on the cooper could be replaced, either with the aero grille kit from your dealer, or if you could get it, the MINI One grill from europe, both of which you can find pictures of if you search the galleries.

It is vaguely possible someone has the same color car as you, and removed their body colored strips, but I'd be wary, since as I said they tend to break the retaining clips upon removal.