Also look on girlshop at the Plunket and Pivet bags - they have some silver ones for a more reasonable price, around $150-$180. I got one a few weeks ago and get compliments on it a lot. Also I think silver has been showing up a lot more than gold in the new collections, so it may be wearable longer than other metallics?
Also Melie Bianco bags look just like that and are more like $50-$60 in lots of different metallics
I love these bags, as you know from recent posts. I contemplated getting a metallic, but I think these lollis can be pretty timeless in a classic color. However I do feel the bronze may have some more staying power because not everyone seems to be jumping on it like silver or gold, it won't be such a fad. IMHO I'd get a more classic color, and get a cheaper metallic bag, but if you LOVE it like you say you do get it.
I, for one, still haven't made up my mind on the metallic handbag trend. Although I see it all over magazines, websites, and store shelves, I actually haven't seen too many people carrying them. The bag is definitely cute (I love the shape!) but I do agree that $300 is too much for it. I second the Melie Bianco suggestion or delia's carries a similar style that dewdk posted.