Riding boot question

I have been thinking about either getting a pair of tall boots or some paddock boots and half chaps lately.

Right now for riding I am using a pair of brown knee high leather boots with about a 1.5 inch heel. They were not made for riding, and have a zipper up the inside, so I have been wanting to replace them, but the other day my instructor said "Nice boots are those new?" and I told her they were not even riding boots... and she was surprised and said they were perfect for riding.

My question is though.. will I be able to show in them?
And would it benefit me to get boots that were made for riding? (or half chaps... can you show in half chaps?)

And what would you recommend?

Boots designed for riding usually have better support. I know my non-riding boots make me ache if I ride in them. My new Ovation riding boots also have better traction for keeping the foot in the stirrup.

It all depends on what discipline you're showing, I'd guess. The only show I've done is a gymkhana!

Well, lets say I`d be doing entry level jumping... and other basic english stuff? (I don't know much about showing yet.. by all means explain some of the terminology if you have the time!)