Published Friday, 07 September 2012
The hunks, who also performed at the ceremony, picked up their first ever VMA just before the event officially started when the promo for their hit was voted Most Share-Worthy Video by fans.
The quintet went on to win Best New Artist and Best Pop Video as well.
Feuding stars Chris Brown and Drake both took to the stage at the Staples Center to collect awards - Brown's Turn up the Music earned him the Best Male Video prize over Drake, but the Canadian was at the podium minutes later when his HYFR collaboration with label boss Lil Wayne landed him the Best Hip Hop Video trophy.
Calvin Harris was also a big winner on the night - not only was he booked as the event's house DJ, but he also collected two MTV Moonmen trophies for Best Electronic Dance Music Video (Feel So Close) and a share of the Video of the Year prize with Rihanna for We Found Love.
One Direction - What Makes You Beautiful on MUZU.TV.
The main list of winners is:
Best Video with a Message - Skyscraper by Demi Lovato
Most Share-Worthy Video - What Makes You Beautiful by One Direction
Best Pop Video - What Makes You Beautiful by One Direction
Best Male Video - Turn up the Music by Chris Brown
Best Hip Hop Video - HYFR by Drake feat. Lil Wayne
Best Female Video - Starships by Nicki Minaj
Best New Artist - What Makes You Beautiful by One Direction
Video of the Year - We Found Love by Rihanna feat. Calvin Harris
Best Electronic Dance Music Video - Feel So Close by Calvin Harris
Best Rock Video - Paradise by Coldplay.