For centuries, the evolution of complete metamorphosis in insects (holometaboly) has captured the imagination of philosophers and scientists. Recent discoveries using model organisms and experimental organisms have greatly advanced our understanding of the molecular regulators of metamorphosis. Drawing on these discoveries and insights gained from the evolution of direct development and metamorphosis in other taxa, we propose that the larval stage found in holometabolous insects may have evolved from a developmentally plastic embryo through the process of genetic accommodation. We highlight the need to study additional species that are phylogenetically closer to the hypothetical common ancestor of holometabolous insects and can serve as a surrogate for this hypothetical insect.